Athlete of the week: Braeden Branson

Lauren Jennings Sports Editor

Friday

Mar 15, 2019 at 12:01 AM

Sport: Baseball

School: Burroughs

Year: Junior

Braeden Branson plays second base for the Burroughs High School baseball team. Branson had Thursday afternoon’s game-tying hit to score two in the bottom of the seventh inning against Sultana to take the game into extra innings. Branson shared the team lead in RBIs.

How did it feel to hit the game-tying run in the seventh to send your team into extra innings?

It was awesome. I think that it was the first time that I have ever done it like that. To come in, with two guys on and come in clutch and help my team. But it is too bad that we did not come out with a win.

How do your coaches motivate you in tough situations like that?

In tough situations like that, they help us keep our head in the game, most importantly. Depending on the situation we are in, they show us how to adapt. And that motivates us more than anything.

You have been gone for a little bit. How do you feel now that you are back at second base?

I had a little break, and I had to work for my spot, but I got it back.

Who is the funniest person on your team?

Hmm ... the funniest person on the team ... Probably Ocho (Andrew Occhionero). He always has a positive outlook and can make you laugh whenever you want.

Since I asked how your coaches motivate you, how do your teammates motivate you as well?

My teammates are the ones that pull for you all the time. They are the rock, more than the coaches for me. They motivate me more than anything.

Who is your biggest motivation or role model?

Probably Tago Seva’aetasi. He is a captain on this team and he expects the best out of us and that is what we try to do.

Do your parents come out and support you? And can you hear them cheering you on?

They do, but they are all the way out [in the outfield]. But it is awesome knowing that they are here to support me.

Do you play any other sports?

I used to play basketball. But I decided not to play this year to focus more on baseball.

Do you have any hobbies?

I am a part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Do you know what you want to do when you go to college?

This is a question I have been trying to answer for a while. I kind of want to get into business.

Do you have a favorite movie?

It has got to be “The Flash.”

Do you have a dream job?

I want to do something that involves sports.

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